Firstly, to get an overall impression of what to expect, Youtube as always has a great video, titled "Burning Seed 2010" - of Australia's first Burning Man event. From arriving, to the partying, fire, and more, it gives a solid 12 minute taste. The only problem is in answering your question with the video - much of the footage is at night, and it's not ...

(disclaimer, I've never been there)
Have a look at (and related pages):
http://burningman.org/event/preparation/getting-there-and-back/
and
http://survival.burningman.org/your-survival-in-brc/survival-checklist/
Black Rock is in the middle of the desert and you need to be self-sufficient or you will not enjoy your stay
Depending on your involvement in ...

Burning Man Festival itself organises a ticket exchange programme for those interested in reselling their tickets. They call it 'STEP' (Secure Ticket Exchange Program). However, for the 2012 festival this is now closed.
The Secure Ticket Exchange Program (STEP) is an online system that
facilitates the safe resale of tickets that have been purchased
...

For 2012, it would seem you're out of luck by official routes. The main website describes the ticketing structure and process, and the final dates have indeed passed.
A search on ebay reveals at least one seller of tickets, but I'd be very cautious buying tickets second-hand - not that it can't be done though.